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MODULAR SMART SWITCH SW925AE

Black Box MODULAR SMART SWITCH SW925AE User manual

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1000 Park Drive • Lawrence, PA 15055-1018 • 724-746-5500 • Fax 724-746-0746
CUSTOMER
SUPPORT
INFORMATION
Order toll-free in the U.S.: Call 877-877-BBOX (outside U.S. call 724-746-5500)
FREE technical support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: Call 724-746-5500 or fax 724-746-0746
Mailing address: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Drive, Lawrence, PA 15055-1018
Web site: www.blackbox.com • E-mail: [email protected]
APRIL 2000
SW925A
SW925AE
SW926C
SW927C
SW928C
SW929C
Modular Smart Switch
© Copyright 2000. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.
Modular Smart Switch
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
AND
INDUSTRY CANADA
RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENTS
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy, and if not
installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions, may cause interference to radio communication. It has been tested
and found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device in accordance
with the specifications in Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC rules, which are designed to
provide reasonable protection against such interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause interference, in which case the user at his own
expense will be required to take whatever measures may be necessary to correct
the interference.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emission from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulation of Industry Canada.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe A prescrites dans le Règlement sur le
brouillage radioélectrique publié par Industrie Canada.
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
12. Precaución debe ser tomada de tal manera que la tierra fisica y la polarización
del equipo no sea eliminada.
13. Los cables de la fuente de poder deben ser guiados de tal manera que no
sean pisados ni pellizcados por objetos colocados sobre o contra ellos,
poniendo particular atención a los contactos y receptáculos donde salen del
aparato.
14. El equipo eléctrico debe ser limpiado únicamente de acuerdo a las
recomendaciones del fabricante.
15. En caso de existir, una antena externa deberá ser localizada lejos de las lineas
de energia.
16. El cable de corriente deberá ser desconectado del cuando el equipo no sea
usado por un largo periodo de tiempo.
17. Cuidado debe ser tomado de tal manera que objectos liquidos no sean
derramados sobre la cubierta u orificios de ventilación.
18. Servicio por personal calificado deberá ser provisto cuando:
A: El cable de poder o el contacto ha sido dañado; u
B: Objectos han caído o líquido ha sido derramado dentro del aparato; o
C: El aparato ha sido expuesto a la lluvia; o
D: El aparato parece no operar normalmente o muestra un cambio en su
desempeño; o
E: El aparato ha sido tirado o su cubierta ha sido dañada.
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
NORMAS OFICIALES MEXICANAS (NOM)
ELECTRICAL SAFETY STATEMENT
INSTRUCCIONES DE SEGURIDAD
1. Todas las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser leídas antes de
que el aparato eléctrico sea operado.
2. Las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser guardadas para
referencia futura.
3. Todas las advertencias en el aparato eléctrico y en sus instrucciones de
operación deben ser respetadas.
4. Todas las instrucciones de operación y uso deben ser seguidas.
5. El aparato eléctrico no deberá ser usado cerca del agua—por ejemplo, cerca
de la tina de baño, lavabo, sótano mojado o cerca de una alberca, etc..
6. El aparato eléctrico debe ser usado únicamente con carritos o pedestales que
sean recomendados por el fabricante.
7. El aparato eléctrico debe ser montado a la pared o al techo sólo como sea
recomendado por el fabricante.
8. Servicio—El usuario no debe intentar dar servicio al equipo eléctrico más allá
a lo descrito en las instrucciones de operación. Todo otro servicio deberá ser
referido a personal de servicio calificado.
9. El aparato eléctrico debe ser situado de tal manera que su posición no
interfiera su uso. La colocación del aparato eléctrico sobre una cama, sofá,
alfombra o superficie similar puede bloquea la ventilación, no se debe colocar
en libreros o gabinetes que impidan el flujo de aire por los orificios de
ventilación.
10. El equipo eléctrico deber ser situado fuera del alcance de fuentes de calor
como radiadores, registros de calor, estufas u otros aparatos (incluyendo
amplificadores) que producen calor.
11. El aparato eléctrico deberá ser connectado a una fuente de poder sólo del
tipo descrito en el instructivo de operación, o como se indique en el aparato.
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
Contents
Chapter Page
1. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
2. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
2.1 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
2.2 Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
3. Installing Port Modules and Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
3.1 Fitting Expansion-Buffer Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
3.2 Fitting Port Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
4. Configuring the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
4.1 Setting the Global Timeout Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
4.2 Setting Parallel Ports as Inputs or Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
4.3 Setting Serial Port Protocols and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
5. Installing the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
5.1 Selecting Ports for Your Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
5.2 Positioning the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
5.3 Cable Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
5.4 Connecting Devices to the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
5.5 Switching On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
5.6 Enabling Computers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
5.7 Using the Modular Smart Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
5.8 Port Indicators (1 to 12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
5.9 Buffer Status Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
6. Using the Control Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
6.1 Installing the Resident Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
6.2 Running the Software from the DOS Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
6.3 Command-Line Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
6.4 Running the Software from within Microsoft
®
Windows . . . . . . . . . .28
6.5 Using the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
6.6 Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
6.7 Selecting a Destination Printer, Plotter, or Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
6.8 Direct Output of Typed Keyboard Characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
6.9 Using the Functions Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
6.9.1 Sending a Form Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
6.9.2 Clearing Unwanted Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
6.9.3 Ending Long or Infinite Timeouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
6.10 Setting the Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
6.10.1 Multiple Copies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
6.10.2 Changing the Timeout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
6.10.3 Selecting a PC Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL
Any trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property of the
trademark owners.
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
Chapter Page
Appendix A: Serial Ports ..................................................................................53
A.1 RS-232 and RS-422 Pin Assignments....................................................53
A.2 Connecting to Computers—RS-232 Connections ..............................54
A.2.1 RS-232 Connections to IBM PCs and Compatibles ..................54
A.2.2 RS-232 Connectors to IBM AT and compatibles ......................55
A.3 Connecting to Printers .........................................................................56
A.4 Connecting to Modems ........................................................................57
A.5 Connecting to Plotters..........................................................................58
A.6 Connecting to NEC Spinwriter ............................................................59
A.7 Connecting to DEC LN03 Laser Printer .............................................60
A.8 RS-422 Cables ........................................................................................61
Appendix B: Parallel Ports ...............................................................................62
B.1 Parallel Pin Assignments ......................................................................62
B.2 Cable for IBM PC/XT, AT, or compatible..........................................64
B.3 Cable to a 36-pin Amphenol ................................................................64
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
Chapter Page
7. Serial Port Control Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
8. Using the Modular Smart Switch to Transfer Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
8.1 Transferring Files between IBM compatible PCs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
8.2 Using the Software with File-Transfer Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
8.3 Transferring Files Between PCs Not Compatible
with IBM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
8.4 General Hints and Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
9. Software Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
9.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
9.2 Connect Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
9.2.1 Selecting a Destination Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
9.2.2 Printing Several Copies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
9.2.3 Broadcasting Data to Several Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
9.2.4 Varying the Timeout Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
9.2.5 Disabling Software Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
9.2.6 Removing Line Feeds at End of Software
Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
9.3 Clear Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
9.4 End of File Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
9.5 Creating Batch Files to Send Commands (IBM
compatible PCs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
9.6 Setting Default Start of Day Destination Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
10. Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
10.1 Self-Test at Power-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
10.2 Parallel Interfaces—No Data Transmitted through the
Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
10.3 Parallel Interfaces—Corrupted, Extra, or Lost Data . . . . . . . . . . . .51
10.4 Problems Interfacing Serial Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
10.5 Serial Interfaces—No Data Transmitted through the
Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
10.6 Serial Interfaces—Corrupted Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
10.7 Merged Printouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
10.8 Print Data Transmitted but File Transfer Fails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
2. Introduction
The Modular Smart Switch is suitable for a wide variety of applications,
including printer and plotter sharing, file transfer, modem sharing, network
switching, electronic point-of-sale systems, access control networks, machine
tool control, data collection, and mainframe connections.
2.1 Features
• Modular and user-upgradeable construction.
• Mixed serial (RS-232/422) and parallel ports in any combination.
• Up to 12 ports and 4 MB of buffer memory.
• Automatic printer and plotter sharing.
• Any port can be routed to any other port.
• File transfer between computers using standard file-transfer software.
• Memory-resident control software for selecting destination ports.
• Multiple copies of printouts.
• Unwanted print data can be cleared from the switch’s buffer.
• Software for high-speed serial data output from PCs.
• Full-duplex serial data communications.
2.2 Product Information
The following items are available:
• Modular Smart Switch Chassis w/ 1 Meg Memory (SW925A, SW925AE)
includes:
Main chassis with 6 dual-port module slots and 2 memory slots
Software disk in 3.5" format
Power lead with 115 VAC or 230 VAC plug
5 module blanking plates with fixing screws
This user manual
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
1. Specifications
Base Chassis (SW925A/SW925AE)—6 dual-port module slots, 2 memory
module slots, integral power supply
Ports—Parallel: Dual parallel-port module slots with DB25 female connectors.
Automatic in/out detection or selectable by option switches. 30,000 cps.
Serial: Dual serial-port modules contain 2 bidirectional RS-232/422
interfaces with DB25 male connectors.
Switches—Control protocol and RS-232/422 selection and baud rates.
Baud Rates—300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, and 57600 bps
Handshake—CTS/DTR hardware XON/XOFF, ETX/ATK.
Functional Features—Code-string control; data broadcast to multiple ports;
print to first available printer; file transfer compatible with Laplink,
Fastlynx, Kermit, Xmodem, etc.
Timeout—Selectable from 1 to 255 seconds
Indicators—LEDs: Buffer status, individual channel activity, power
Power—115 or 230 VAC, 60/50 Hz
Size—3.5"H x 13.1"W x 9.4"D (9 x 33.5 x 24 cm)
Weight—7.7 lb. (3.5 kg)
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
3. Installing Memory and Port Modules
To fit memory and port modules, you will need to remove the lid of your
Modular Smart Switch. To do this, remove the four retaining screws holding
the lid in place (see Figure 3-2) and lift the lid away.
3.1 Fitting Expansion-Buffer Memory
The Modular Smart Switch contains two memory module slots (A and B),
each of which can be fitted with a 1 MB or 2MB buffer memory module (see
Figure 3-1). The Modular Smart Switch is supplied as standard with a 1 Meg
buffer memory module fitted in slot A.
Figure 3-1. Fitting Expansion Buffer Memory Modules.
Memory slot B Memory slot A
(fill this first)
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
• Dual Serial RS232/422 Port Module (SW926C)
• Dual Parallel Port Module In/Out (SW927C)
• 1 Meg Memory Expansion (SW928C)
• 2 Meg Memory Expansion (SW929C)
13
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
Figure 3-2. Fitting Port Modules.
To fit port modules:
1. Make sure that the Modular Smart Switch is powered off.
2. Remove the rear- panel blanking plates as appropriate.
3. Insert the modules as shown in Figure 3-2.
4. Push the modules onto the mating connectors on the base board.
Do not place too much pressure on the board.
5. Fix the modules to the rear panel using the screws provided.
12
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
To install additional buffer memory:
• Make sure that the Modular Smart Switch is powered off.
• Insert the expansion buffer memory module into slot A or B (slot A
should be filled first). A polarizing pin ensures that the board is seated
correctly.
The installed buffer memory is automatically tested whenever the Modular
Smart Switch is powered on. The buffer memory indicators will flash while
the test is in progress and go off when the test is complete. If all the channel
and buffer indicators come on permanently, then the buffer has been
installed incorrectly or there is a memory fault.
CAUTION
Always observe static handling precautions when installing memory
modules.
1. Keep the modules in their anti-static bags until you are ready to install
them.
2. Never place memory modules in plastic bags or on plastic surfaces.
3. Discharge static from your clothes before handling the modules (you
can do this by touching an earth-grounded metal device).
3.2 Fitting Port Modules
• Any type of port module can be fitted into any of the six module slots in
any order.
• All slots have equal priority.
• All print data is routed by default to port 1 unless a destination port has
been selected. For automatic printer and plotter sharing, the printer or
plotter should be connected to port 1.
Position of lid
retaining screws
15
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
4.1 Setting the Global Timeout Period
Figure 4-1. Setting the Global Timeout Period.
0
0
1
1
0
1
0
1
OFF
(0)
ON
(1)
1
2
3
4
5
6
Timeout = 16 seconds
Timeout = 30 seconds
Timeout = 1 minute
Timeout = 4 minutes
Reserved - set to 0
TEST switch - set to 0 (OFF)
for normal operation
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
4. Configuring the Modular Smart Switch
The ports on the Modular Smart Switch are configured using a number
of option switches situated on the modules. In addition to the port
configuration, the global timeout values can be set using option switches
on the main board. Figures 4-1, 4-2, and 4-3 show the meaning of each
of the sets of option switches. Set the option switches as required.
NOTE
The option switches are only read when the Modular Smart Switch is first
powered on. Changing the settings while the Modular Smart Switch is
powered on will have no immediate effect.
17
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
4.2 Setting Parallel Ports as Inputs or Outputs
Figure 4-2. Selecting the Direction of Parallel Ports (Input or Output).
HIGH port
Dual parallel
port module
LOW port
HIGH port
switches
LOW port
switches
OFF
(0)
ON
(1)
1
ON
2 3 4
1
0
0
1
1
1
Set port as INPUT
Set port as OUTPUT
Automatic input/output
detection (* not guaranteed)
1
0
0
1
1
1
Set port as INPUT
Set port as OUTPUT
Automatic input/output
detection (* not guaranteed)
HIGH port switches
LOW port switches
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MODULAR SMART SWITCH
Timeout Period
When a user has sent no data for the timeout period, the Modular Smart
Switch is able to switch to another user. The default timeout setting of 16
seconds is suitable for most applications. If printouts are ever merged,
increase the timeout period. Switches 1 and 2 on the base board control the
global default timeout period used by all the ports. Individual port timeouts
can be set using the software (see Chapter 6) or by sending software
commands (see Chapter 9).
19
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
NOTE
The XON/XOFF setting for printer and plotter con-nections is a
bidirectional protocol that recognizes the XON and XOFF characters in
both directions. The XON/XOFF setting for com-puter connections
recog-nizes the XON and XOFF characters in one direction only. This
allows graphics, font and other non text data to be sent from computers
without problems (the XON and XOFF characters often form part of this
data).
Ports on the Modular Smart Switch that are set to XON/XOFF handshake
will also give the hardware handshake signal to ensure maximum
compatibility.
The bidirectional XON/XOFF protocol used for printer and plotter connec-
tions can also be used for computer connections if the computer will
never send the XON or XOFF characters as part of the data stream.)
RS-232/RS-422 Selection
Each dual serial module supports both RS-232 and RS-422 serial
communication. The hardware signals for RS-232 and RS-422
communication appear on different pins of the interface
(see Appendix A for pin-configuration details).
18
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
NOTE
Automatic detection of the direction of parallel ports is achieved by
detecting the state of the SELECT IN signal on the hardware interface.
This will operate with most PCs and printers. Automatic detection is not
guaranteed to work with all equipment, so if you experience any
problems, set the ports as dedicated inputs or outputs.
4.3 Setting Serial-Port Protocols and Options
Protocols
For serial devices, you must set a number of parameters to make sure that the
Modular Smart Switch is “speaking the same language” as the equipment that
it will communicate with. These parameters include the handshake mode,
the baud rate, the parity, the number of bits per character, and the number of
stop bits. Most computers and printers are able to set these parameters, so it
is generally advisable to set the fastest available. This is often 9600 baud, 8
bits per character, one stop bit, no parity, and either hardware handshake or
XON/XOFF.
Hardware Handshake
• DTR/CTS (hardware) handshake uses hardware signal lines to control the
flow of data (pins 5 and 20).
Software Handshake
• ETX/ACK—the flow of data is controlled by sending blocks of data and
waiting for an ACKnowledgement character to be received.
• XON/XOFF (printer and plotter connections)—the flow of data is
controlled by the receiving device by transmitting XOFF (stop data flow)
and XON (start data flow) characters. Set this protocol on ports
connected to printers and plotters.
• XON/XOFF (computer connections)—the flow of data is controlled by
the Modular Smart Switch. This is done by sending XON (start data flow)
and XOFF (stop data flow) characters to the computer. Set this protocol
on ports connected to computers.
21
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
5. Installing the Modular Smart Switch
5.1 Selecting Ports for Your Equipment
Printer and Plotter Sharing Applications
Unless otherwise specified, all print and plot data will automatically be routed
to port 1. If you are automatically sharing a single printer or plotter, connect
it to port 1. All ports have equal priority and data output is handled on a
“first-come-first-served” basis.
General Datacomm Applications
For applications involving a central controlling PC, the PC should normally
be connected to port 1 since data is routed to this port by default.
5.2 Positioning the Modular Smart Switch
Choose a central position for the Modular Smart Switch. This keeps cable
lengths to a minimum.
5.3 Cable Requirements
You will need a suitable cable for each device that you wish to connect to the
switch. Mechanical and electrical specifications for the cables are given in
Appendix A (serial) and Appendix B (parallel).
NOTE
A great number of serial cables are available that are not suitable for use
with your Modular Smart Switch. Do not assume that an existing cable is
of the correct type because it has the correct connectors on each end or
because it works between two other pieces of equipment. Always use
the cabling recommended in this manual.
Centronics parallel cables should be less than 22.9 ft. (7 m) long. If the
parallel computer or printer is more than 22.9 ft. (7 m) from the switch, the
cable may be susceptible to spurious pick-up such as that generated from
switching on fluorescent lights. Reduce the cable runs or use a booster if you
have problems.
5.4 Connecting Devices to the Modular Smart Switch
Switch off all computers and printers before making any connections to the
Modular Smart Switch. Also, park any hard disks if you need to move any PCs
to allow access.
20
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
Figure 4-3. Setting Serial Port Options and Protocols.
OFF
(0)
ON
(1)
1
ON
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1
01
1
11
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
10
1
00
1
10
57k6 baud
38k4 baud
19k2 baud
9k6 baud
4k8 baud
2k4 baud
1k2 baud
300 baud
0
1
RS422
RS232
XON/XOFF-printer/plotter connections
0
0
1
0
1
1
1
0
XON/XOFF-computer connections
ETX/ACK handshake
DTR/CTS handshake
0
1
7 bits
8 bits
0
1
2 stop bits
1 stop bit
0
0
0
1
1
1
Even parity
Odd parity
No parity
HIGH port
Dual serial
port module
LOW port
HIGH port
switches
LOW port
switches
23
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1,P <enter>
This sets the baud to 9600, no parity, 8 bits per character, and 1 stop bit on
COM1. You may wish to put this in your computer’s AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
You may wish to use the supplied software to enhance the speed and
functionality of your serial port (refer to Chapter 7 for full details on the
benefits of using the software utility).
ADMODE COM1:57600,N,8,1 <enter>
If you have more than one port on your PC, make sure that your printout is
sent to a port that is connected to the Modular Smart Switch. For IBM
compatible PCs, DOS will prompt you to specify the printer port the first time
you issue a print command. If you are using a parallel port (LPT1, LPT2, or
LPT3), you can print directly without any further setup. If you are normally
using a serial port to output print data, you may wish to redirect the parallel
port data to output on the serial port, using the MODE command. The
following example will set your PC to send all LPT1 data to COM1.
MODE LPT1:=COM1:
If you are going to plot/print from DOS, make sure that the computer
cannot timeout if the buffer on the Modular Smart Switch becomes full. This
could cause errors on your plots or an error message to be displayed on your
screen. To avoid this, make sure that you have issued a MODE command with
the P option set. If you wish to run your serial port at a high baud rate and
make sure that no computer times out, you can use the MODE and ADMODE
commands together. The ADMODE protocol will always override the MODE
protocol. The following example would set COM1 to 57600 baud, no parity,
8 bits, 1 stop bit, and no application timeout.
MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1,P <enter>
ADMODE COM1:57600,N,8,1 <enter>
NOTE
If you are sending plot/print data from IBM compatibles using a serial
port, make sure that your AUTOEXEC.BAT includes both the MODE (with
P option) and ADMODE commands relevant to that port.
22
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
Plug in your cables, making sure that you are using the correct type of cable
(see Appendixes A and B) and that you are connecting to the right type of
port.
CAUTION
Connecting to the wrong type of port could damage both the Modular
Smart Switch and your computers and printers.
5.5 Switching On
Plug the power supply lead into the rear of the Modular Smart Switch. Plug
the power lead into a suitable supply socket. Switch on at the supply. Switch
on the Modular Smart Switch using the switch at the rear.
The Power indicator (green) should come on and stay on. The Buffer
Status indicators (red) should flicker for a few seconds while the unit self-
tests, and then go out.
It is generally better to switch on all your devices together or switch on the
Modular Smart Switch last.
5.6 Enabling Computers
Computers Connected to Parallel Ports
Parallel interfaces do not normally need to be configured. For IBM PCs
running DOS, make sure that PC timeouts do not occur if the Modular Smart
Switch’s buffer becomes full. This can be done using the MODE command
as follows. Refer to your DOS manual for details.
MODE LPT1: , , P
Computers Connected to Serial Ports
Each computer must communicate with the Modular Smart Switch in the
format expected by the port it is connected to. The baud rate, parity, bits per
character, stop bits, and handshake format must be the same on the
computer and the Modular Smart Switch port. Your computer instruction
manual will tell you how to set up these parameters.
For IBM PCs and compatibles, the MODE command is used to select the
correct parameters. With the default option-switch settings and output on
COM1, the MODE command is:
25
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
5.9 Buffer Status Indicators
The buffer status indicators show the state of the internal buffer memory in
the form of a bar graph:
•
1
⁄4 Indicator—Buffer is over 1/4 full
•
1
⁄2 Indicator—Buffer is over 1/2 full
•
3
⁄4 Indicator—Buffer is over 3/4 full
• F (full) Indicator—Buffer is completely full
If the buffer often fills to the
3
⁄4 level, consider purchasing additional
memory for increased performance.
NOTE
The Modular Smart Switch will always operate correctly even if the buffer
becomes full. If you have any problems when the buffer memory is full,
check the handshaking settings on your equipment and your cabling.
24
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
5.7 Using the Modular Smart Switch
Printer and Plotter Sharing Applications
The Modular Smart Switch is now ready for use as a printer sharer for the
printer attached to port 1. Data sent in from any computer will automatically
be sent to this port.
Users can print simultaneously, and the Modular Smart Switch will buffer
the information until it can be sent to the default printer/plotter. All data
from one source is treated as a single printable file until there has been a
break in the transmission for more than the timeout period (see Section 4.1).
If two or more printers/plotters are connected to the Modular Smart
Switch, you will need the software (see Chapter 6) or software commands (see
Chapter 9) to select between them. Other options and facilities are also
detailed in these two sections.
General Datacomm Applications
Once you are communicating correctly with the Modular Smart Switch, you
can select between ports by sending ASCII command strings. In addition to
the data destination, these ASCII command strings can be used to select the
timeout period, “broadcast” data to several ports, and make/break permanent
(no timeout) connections. The serial ports on the Modular Smart Switch are
bidirectional. Refer to Chapter 7 for details on how to use the command
strings and the connection options available.
5.8 Port Indicators (1 to 12)
The port indicators can be off, on, or flashing.
• Off—When a port indicator is off, nothing is being transferred into or out
of that port and no data is available.
• On—The port indicator is on when data is available. If data has been sent
in on a port, the activity light will remain on until the port has timed out
(after no data has been sent for the timeout period).
• Flashing—While data is being transferred either into or out of the Modular
Smart Switch, the activity indicator will flash.
27
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
6.3 Command-Line Options
The control software supports a number of command line options that allow
the utility to be installed and run in several different formats. They also allow
a number of default settings to be changed and different hotkey
combinations to be selected. Options are specified after a forward slash on
the command line. Any number of options can be specified. For example,
the following command line would install the utility for use in text modes
with COM2 as the default port and the hotkey combination set to
<CTRL><SHIFT>.
ADMENU /T /C2 /H2
The options available are summarized below. The default settings
(shown in brackets) are assumed for all the options that are not specified.
/U (No default)
Deletes the utility from memory.
/T and /G (/G default)
The /G option allows the resident software to be used in both text and
graphics modes. When installed with the /G option, the software will
occupy 22K of memory. Installing the software with the /T option allows the
control software to be used in text modes only, and the memory requirement
is reduced to 10K. The memory size used is confirmed in the installation
message.
/Lx and /Cx (/L1 default) x=1, 2, or 3
These options specify the PC port that is displayed when the control software
is initially invoked (either COM1, COM2, LPT1, LPT2, or LPT3). The
number of the required port is specified after the letter C or L: C for serial, L
for parallel. The port to be used can be specified once the software has been
invoked using the PC PORT function and so these options are primarily for
convenience only.
/Hx (/H1 default)
26
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
6. Using the Control Software
The control software is located on the disk supplied with your Modular Smart
Switch. It provides an easy and user-friendly way of operating the switch. It is
designed for use on IBM compatible PCs using CGA, EGA, VGA, and
monochrome adapters (it will also run on adapters that emulate the modes
used by these adapters). Its primary function is to enable destination devices
to be selected.
Installing the utility in your PC’s memory as a “resident program” allows
you to “pop up” the control software program at any time using a “hotkey”
combination. The utility supports options that allow the software to run as a
non-resident program from the DOS prompt (see Section 6.2) and while in
the Microsoft Windows environment (see Section 6.4).
6.1 Installing the Resident Software
Copy the program ADMENU.COM from the disk to the current directory
on your PC.
At the DOS prompt, type ADMENU <enter>
The program will respond by printing an identification message. This
command only needs to be issued once. You may therefore find it convenient
to include it in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. To invoke the ADMENU software,
press these three keys together:
<CTRL><ALT><SHIFT>
NOTE
You can change the hotkey combination used to invoke the ADMENU
software if required (see Section 6.3).
6.2 Running the Control Software from the DOS Prompt
Copy the program ADMENU.COM from the disk to the current directory
on your PC.
At the DOS prompt, type ADMENU /N <enter>.
29
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
To use HOTKEY within Windows, you must first install the control software
in your computer’s memory. Do this before you run Windows, because once
you are within Windows, resident programs cannot be loaded. You can then
activate HOTKEY by clicking on HOTKEY.COM, HOTKEY.PIF, or an icon
associated with these files.
The control software can also be run as a non-resident utility from the
Windows desktop. To do this, click on ADWIN.PIF or an icon associated with
this file.
NOTE
For Windows 3 users, the easiest way to create an icon associated with
HOTKEY.COM is to make a copy of a current file on the desktop and then
to edit the properties of that file. For example, change the description to
ADMENU and the group file command line to C:\WINDOWS\HOTKEY.
COM.
6.5 Using the Control Software
Invoking the control software will cause a menu to appear on the screen.
You can select options from the menu using the <up> and <down> cursor
keys and the <enter> key.
• Use the <up> and <down> cursor keys to highlight the options in the
menus.
• Use <enter> to select a highlighted option.
• Use <escape> to quit from any menu or the application.
28
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
This option allows the hotkey combination that invokes the resident control
software to be changed. There are 5 possible options. The desired option is
selected by specifying the corresponding number after the letter H. The
available hotkey combinations are as follows.
/H1 selects <CTRL><ALT>
<SHIFT>
/H2 selects <CTRL><SHIFT>
/H3 selects <CTRL><ALT>
/H4 selects <CTRL><ALT>
/H5 selects <LEFT SHIFT>
<RIGHT SHIFT>
<SHIFT> can be either the left or the right shift key. The selected
combination is confirmed in the installation message.
/N and /R (/R default)
These options allow the control software to be run as a non-resident utility.
To do this, use the /N option. To install the menu as a resident program, use
the /R option.
/M (standard color default)
The /M ensures that the menu appears in mono mode. This option is
provided for compatibility with certain types of monochrome screens found
on some LAPTOPS and other computers. If the control software’s menu bars
are faint or non-existent on your screen, then install the software using the
/M option.
6.4 Running the Control Software from within Microsoft
®
Windows
®
By using an additional utility (HOTKEY), you can invoke the resident control
software within Windows. It is equivalent to pressing the hotkey combination
that would normally be used to launch the control software.
Hotkey-activated programs cannot be used from the Windows desktop,
since Windows takes over full control of the keyboard, effectively locking
other programs out. HOTKEY overcomes this problem by allowing the
software to be invoked from an icon (or file name) while at the Windows
desktop. HOTKEY remembers previous settings and retains these between
applications. On some computers with additional memory, HOTKEY will run
within a window. Switching to a full-screen application while within Windows,
or quitting from Windows, will enable the hotkey combination to invoke the
menu.
31
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
F. Destination Port—Indicates the port on the Modular Smart Switch that
your PC is currently connected to. All data output from the currently
selected PC port (G) will be routed to this destination port on the
Modular Smart Switch.
G. PC Port—Indicates the port on your PC that the control software will use
to send control commands to your Modular Smart Switch. Make sure that
the port that is physically connected to the Modular Smart Switch is
displayed in this box.
H. Mode—Indicates whether normal mode or file-transfer mode is
currently selected. In normal mode, a dash (-) will be displayed. In file-
transfer mode, a flashing arrow will be displayed. The mode in use is set
automatically when you select a destination port using the
DESTINATION (normal mode) or FILE TRANSFER option.
6.7 Selecting a Destination Printer, Plotter, or Modem
The control software initially assumes that the Modular Smart Switch is
connected to the PC with a parallel link to LPT1. (Other default ports can
be specified using the /L or /C command-line option—see Section 6.3.)
If a different parallel PC port has been connected (LPT2, LPT3) or one of
the serial PC ports (COM1 or COM2), then you must first select that port—
see Section 6.10.3. Where several links are made to the same PC, then you
first need to make sure that you have selected the PC port that you wish to
use to print data.
With the dialog box displaying the correct PC port and DESTINATION
highlighted, press <enter>. A new box will appear as shown below. Enter
the desired destination port number, then type <enter>. All subsequent print
data that is sent out on the currently selected PC port will be routed to the
device attached to the specified destination port on the Modular Smart
Switch. For example, selecting port 1 will send data to the device attached
to port 1 on the Modular Smart Switch. The currently selected routing will
be displayed on the main menu.
30
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
6.6 Main Menu
Figure 6-1. Main Menu.
A. Destination—Used to connect your computer to the required printer,
plotter, modem, or other device (see Section 6.7).
B. File Transfer—Used to connect through to other computers and set the
Modular Smart Switch to file-transfer mode. This option should only be
used to establish links for file-transfer purposes—use the DESTINATION
option for all other applications (see Chapter 8). File transfer is only
available on serial ports.
C. Direct Output—Used to output characters and control codes directly
from your keyboard (see Section 6.8).
D. Functions—Allows you to clear data, form feed the printer or end a long
timeout (see Section 6.9).
E. Options—Used to select the number of copies, timeout period, and the
PC port that the menu is to control (see Section 6.10).
ADDER TECHNOLOGY
ADMENU
DESTINATION
FILE TRANSFER
DIRECT OUTPUT
FUNCTIONS
OPTIONS
PORT 2 LPT1
<ESC> TO QUIT
HGF
E
D
C
B
A
33
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
6.8 Direct Output of Typed Keyboard Characters
Normal keyboard characters and control characters can be sent to the printer
using the “Direct Output” option. In the keyboard characters box, all
characters typed will be sent directly to the printer except <up>, <down>, and
<escape>. Control characters such as those to set condensed or bold printing
can be specified in hexadecimal ASCII format. In the hexadecimal ASCII
characters box, the specified character is sent when you press <enter>.
Figure 6-3. Direct Output Menu.
Use <esc> to quit to the main menu.
NOTE
Characters such as line feeds are displayed using an unusual set of non-
alphanumeric characters.
ADDER TECHNOLOGY
ADMENU
DIRECT OUTPUT
DESTINATION
FILE TRANSFER
FUNCTIONS
OPTIONS
PORT 1 COM1
<ESC> TO QUIT
DIRECT OUTPUT
KEYBOARD
CHARACTERS
HEXADECIMAL
ASCII CHARACTERS
32
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
Figure 6-2. Selecting a Printer.
• Use <esc> to abort and quit to the main menu, <enter> to confirm.
• Enter the destination (the port on the Modular Smart Switch that is
connected to the required printer, plotter, or modem.
• Valid port identifiers are 1 to 12, depending on how many ports you have
installed.
ADDER TECHNOLOGY
ADMENU
DESTINATION
FILE TRANSFER
DIRECT OUTPUT
FUNCTIONS
OPTIONS
PORT 1 COM1
<ESC> TO QUIT
DESTINATION
ENTER
DESTINATION
PORT NUMBER
(1 TO 12)
35
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
When in the functions menu, use the arrows to select END OF FILE and then
press <enter>. The dialog box will respond with an END OF FILE message
for a few seconds. The END OF FILE function can also be used to end long
timeouts.
6.10 Setting the Options
To enter the options menu, use the <up> and <down> cursor keys on the
main menu to highlight OPTIONS, and press <enter>. The options menu
now allows you to select multiple copies, change the timeout, and change
the PC port.
Figure 6-5. Options Menu.
Use <esc> to quit to the main menu.
6.10.1 M
ULTIPLE
C
OPIES
The Modular Smart Switch can generate multiple copies automatically.
Simply select the COPIES option, enter the number of copies required (up to
255) in the entry box and press <enter>. Send the document once, and when
it has timed out (no more data sent for at least 16 seconds or the timeout
period), the Modular Smart Switch will commence printing the extra copies.
The entire document must be less than the buffer memory in the Modular
Smart Switch; otherwise only one copy can be produced.
ADDER TECHNOLOGY
ADMENU
FUNCTIONS
PORT 1 COM1
<ESC> TO QUIT
DESTINATION
FILE TRANSFER
DIRECT OUTPUT
OPTIONS
TIME OUT
PC PORT
COPIES
OPTIONS
34
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
6.9 Using the Functions Menu
To enter the functions menu, use the <up> and <down> cursor keys on the
main menu to highlight FUNCTIONS, and press <enter>. The functions
menu now allows you to send form feeds, clear unwanted data, and end long
timeouts.
Figure 6-4. Functions Menu.
Use <esc> to quit to the main menu.
6.9.1 S
ENDING A
F
ORM
F
EED
This is a convenient way of causing a printer to take a new page, without
having to go to the printer and press the form-feed button. In the functions
menu, use the <up> and <down> cursor keys to select FORM FEED and then
press <enter>. The dialog box will respond with FORM FEED SENT for a few
seconds.
6.9.2 C
LEARING
U
NWANTED
D
ATA
To delete all the data that has been sent from the current PC port, select the
CLEAR DATA option and press <enter>. A box will appear requesting
confirmation. Type Y if you wish to delete all data, or N or <escape> if you
don’t. This command will not affect any data sent from a different computer.
6.9.3 E
NDING
L
ONG OR
I
NFINITE
T
IMEOUTS
When an infinite (OFF) timeout has been set, an end of file instruction needs
to be sent to the Modular Smart Switch to allow other users to access the
currently selected device. The END OF FILE function can be used to do this.
37
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
7. Serial Port Control Utility
The control software allows serial ports on IBM compatible PCs to be run at
the high baud rates supported by the Modular Smart Switch. The utility can
be used to control COM1 or COM2 and supports a wide range of protocols.
The time-saving advantages of running serial ports at higher baud rates can
be quite dramatic, and the control software makes sure that the correct
protocol is used regardless of the settings on the application program.
Although DOS will normally only support baud rates up to 9600, most PCs
are capable of running at much higher speeds of 19,200, 38,400, or 57,600
baud. A number of high-baud-rate utilities are available that act like the
DOS MODE command. But these can be of little practical use, since many
application programs change the baud rate and protocol when they run.
The control software overcomes this problem by preventing application
programs from changing the baud rate or protocol of the serial port being
controlled. This has two major advantages. First, the user does not need to
worry about setting the baud rate and protocol in the application program.
Second, high baud rates can be used for plotting from packages that would
normally only support lower baud rates.
To run the control software, copy the program ADMODE.COM from
the utility disk to a suitable directory on your PC. At the DOS prompt,
type a command in the following format.
ADMODE COMn: baud, parity, databits, stopbits
You only need to include a parameter after baud if it needs to be changed
from the default values shown in Table 7-1. The minimum command syntax
is:
ADMODE COMn: baud
Example
To set serial port 1 (COM1) to 38400 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit,
and no parity, use the following command.
ADMODE COM1:38400,N,8,1 <enter>
High-Baud-Rate Limitations
In practice, almost all modern PCs will support baud rates of 38,400.
However, a number of PCs that we tested were not able to support baud rates
of 57,600 because of the design of their serial ports. If you have problems
with particular PCs, try reducing the baud rate.
36
MODULAR SMART SWITCH
6.10.2 C
HANGING THE
T
IMEOUT
The timeout period can be varied from the default of 16 seconds to any value
between 1 and 255 seconds, or it can be permanently off. To do so, select
the TIMEOUT option and type the required value into the entry box. Press
<enter> to return to the options menu. To return to the default value of
16 seconds, press <escape>.
6.10.3 S
ELECTING A
PC P
ORT
If the correct PC port is not shown on the main menu (G in Figure
6-1), then use the PC PORT option to select this. Highlight the PC PORT
option and type <enter>. Use the <up> and <down> cursor keys to select
the desired port (highlighted) and then press <enter>. The PC port you
have selected will now be displayed.
NOTE
The control software defines the routing from the selected port on your
PC—it does not set the port that your software will use for output.
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